Vox Populi, our weekly live chat on the week’s events begins tonight at 7:00pm PST and there’s so much to discuss, that’s for certain. Hope to see you then!

adlib7 days ago

Hey there!

adlib7 days ago

Quite a week.

adlib7 days ago

Hi, Beatlex, Adlib. I’ll be in and out, but yes, quite a week for many reasons.

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

So true, PPO.

adlib7 days ago

I do feel, now that POTUS is pushing it, there will be progress in the relations between minorities and the police. there of course will always be the redneck element everywhere, but it’s at least a good start.

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

Good evening, Ad, Beatlex, PPO. I’m very sad for my country tonight. I also see hope, but mostly I’m sad.

glenn

7 days ago

Hey glenn!

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

With all that has gone on lately, with the killing of black people by the police,It hit me that the President can add to his legacy over this.Of course we cannot stamp out bigotry,but he can do plenty about how the country is policed,It is already happening.I wish Eric Holder would stay and help the President affect some positive change.What the the R’s going to do about it

beatlex

7 days ago

beatlex, don’t ecpect the GOP to do anything. It is in their political interests to keep the fear and loathing factor on High

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

oops, spelling!

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

Beatlex–Here’s what I”d like to see Eric Holder do. Arrest Cliven Bundy. If he resists, remind people that many leaders on the right are saying that one shouldn’t resist arrest. Whatever it takes to place Bundy under arrest, should be done. That would give me hope.

glenn

7 days ago

Good point, glenn.

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

Hi glenn!

adlib7 days ago

Hey beatlex!

adlib7 days ago

Sir AdLib!

beatlex

7 days ago

one would be aghast if a similar situation happened in a black community and a black militia backed up the offender. We know what would happen in that circumstance, don’t we?

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

PPO–I just can’t wrap my mind around this blatant, uncompromising hypocrisy of the people on the right. How can you talk about “outside agitators” in Ferguson when bundy brought in outsiders? How can you talk about not resisting arrest when bundy resisted arrest with armed thugs surrounding him? How can you talk about an unarmed man’s criminal record as “proof” that he deserved what he got, when bundy has defied numerous court orders? In my book, that makes him a criminal. Why isn’t bundy in jail or dead?

glenn

7 days ago

Glenn-agreed!

beatlex

7 days ago

you got that right, glenn. And now GJs are backing the racists.

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

This is a real movement now and i think there are a few real big gamechangers that can get done. Especially on the state level. First, change state laws so that a special prosecutor handles all police brutality or crime cases. It is a conflict of interest to have a DA in charge of cases against officers. Body cams will be helpful. And citizen oversight of police forces. Also, de-militaarization and more community policing. These are things that can really happen.

adlib7 days ago

Start the petition, Ad!

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

I’m still gobsmacked that a situation is in the US, in open carry states, that a white guy walking the streets goes unaccosted, but a black man doing the same is immediately assumed to be a criminal and gets creamed.

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

glenn – We all are familiar with the mind (such as it is) of the RWs. They have no actual principles, just talking points to express their prejudices. So it’s unavoidable for them to become hypocrites, as long as something serves their goals, they support it. If it doesn’t, they fabricate reasons for why it’s so wrong. Simple minded haters.

adlib7 days ago

BRB

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

Ad–In many places they have citizen review boards–in fact, they had one in Key West when I lived there. I’m not sure it’s still operating, because it had no “enforcement” powers, and whatever the CRB said, the police ignored. There is a large minority population in Key West, living in what is known as “Bahama Village”, and the police presence and activites there are the same as in any large city in the US–IOW, very heavy on “policing” the black areas of town; not so much on other areas.

glenn

7 days ago

PPO – It is kind of disheartening that racism is so widespread and openly integrated into our society. We’ve wanted to believe that it was dissolving away but it was actually just continuing along out of the spotlight.

adlib7 days ago

Ad–I know you’re correct in your analysis of the righties, but where are the Dems with backbones? I’m seriously considering writing an open letter to Eric Holder urging him to arrest bundy, wherever, whenever, and however he can. Perhaps a SWAT raid. Too bad if bundy’s family gets hurt–if bundy had taught them better, they wouldn’t have gotten hurt.

glenn

7 days ago

What about that 12 yr old boy? They said they told him 3 times! to drop it.That kid was dead before that cop got his door open

beatlex

7 days ago

Evening all. Our country is officially crap!!

sillylittleme

7 days ago

glenn – That is the main issue, the citizen review boards need power to enforce their decisions. Otherwise, it’s just an exhaust valve that allows racist cops the freedom to attack black men and just be pointed at by a powerless board.

adlib7 days ago

Beatlex–it’s so sad, isn’t it? And, that policeman who shot him was let go from another police force because he had issues.

glenn

7 days ago

Hey slm!

adlib7 days ago

Evening, SLM. I, too, am appalled at what our country has become.

glenn

7 days ago

Read today about another case in AZ. The man was carrying a McDonald’s bag. So now you can get shot for bringing fast food home.

sillylittleme

7 days ago

SLM–He was shot outside of his home?

glenn

7 days ago

Hello Planeteers. #ICantBreathe

sabreen60

7 days ago

At his doorstep in front of his small children

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Evening Sabreen–I can’t breathe either.

glenn

7 days ago

Looking for the article, Glenn

sillylittleme

7 days ago

glenn – I do agree that Bundy should be arrested but I think it would be the wrong time to do that. Right now the focus is on the racist cops and system out there, an arrest of Bundy right now would electrify the racists and turn this moment that has the potential for change into a kind of civil war that would become the focus. It’s admittedly political but I want the momentum kept laser focused on reforming our police and reigning them in. Then…let’s take Bundy to his new home with bars.

adlib7 days ago

Evening Sabreen

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Ad–yes, the “charter” or whatever it is for the CRBs need to be written correctly; that’s for sure.

glenn

7 days ago

Ad – disagree no protection would make his arrest easier.

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Hi Sabreen. It is such a heartbreaking yet poignant motto for this movement, “I can’t breathe.” And we’re not going to hold our breath for change, we’ve got to demand it.

adlib7 days ago

beatlex – I watched the tape of Tamir Rice being shot to death. The cop shot him in less that 2 seconds. The cops lied before they knew a tape was out there.

sabreen60

7 days ago

Ad–I know you’re correct (I hate using the word “right” any more for someone who is correct), but at least someone on the left should be talking about how racist cops can do this to unarmed black men when a criminal white man, surrounded by outside agitators, and armed thugs, is still alive and free. I think it just points out the blatant hypocrisy of the system almost more than anything else does.

glenn

7 days ago

slm – What I’m talking about is the backlash after Bundy would be arrested, the racists will go on marches and protests and create a powder keg right when so many black people are also protesting…it would be very dangerous.

adlib7 days ago

Good Friday evening, friends. I wish the past week had been a little less depressing though…

Sabreen – That cop who shot Tamir is going down, the DoJ isn’t going to pass up that case. Also considering how that cop was fired for being emotionally unstable where he was previously working.

adlib7 days ago

Ad – it isn’t just black people protesting, police brutality has to be stopped. And so do tax evaders.

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Hey Harleigh

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Hey Harleigh!

adlib7 days ago

Hi Kes!

adlib7 days ago

I saw video of the 7 minutes right after Eric Garner was strangled. Why they didn’t take the handcuffs off and start CPR is beyond me. He might have been saved!

kesmarn

7 days ago

AdLib, et al – what I heard that makes the most sense to me is that when cops are involved in killing, wounding etc an unarmed individual a special prosecutor should be called in. State/local prosecutors have a symbiotic relationship with cops. They depend on the police union and cops to help them get elected. They depend on cops to help them win cases. They will not be fair when cops are involved in these cases. The other point I heard is that the relationship when cops, prosecutors and internal affairs is incestuous.

sabreen60

7 days ago

Hey Harleigh

glenn

7 days ago

Hi Harleigh and kes!

sabreen60

7 days ago

Sabreen I agree, it is as bad as how rape stays within the military where the victims don’t have chance of justice.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Sabreen–all of what you say about the relationship between cops and prosecutors is true. I hope we can get federal laws passed for special prosecutors in ALL states. Otherwise, I fear that some red states, mine among them, will just keep the incestuous relationship going.

glenn

7 days ago

Should be ….relationship WITH cops …

sabreen60

7 days ago

I’ve heard that too, Sabreen. That prosecutors depend on cops to testify in their cases. Although, apparently McCulloch in Ferguson doesn’t have too many qualms about indicting a black policeman who struck a suspect on the hand with his baton. He’s in jail on assault charges now.

kesmarn

7 days ago

slm – True, just saying that if we set up a situation where white racists are angry and protesting where there are black people that they mindlessly hate and would blame for Bundy’s arrest, the danger would not be worth the arrest. And it would change the focus on changing the racism in our cops and courts to racial conflicts across the country. IMO, first things first. Stop the killing by cops and their being out of control. Then with them in check and working for citizens, take Bundy to jail and other similar racist lawbreakers.

adlib7 days ago

Murph is in da house!

glenn

7 days ago

kes, I read that. I’m pretty sure race has to be a factor in some of these cases.

sabreen60

7 days ago

Kes – Really interested to hear what you think about the EMS that came to the scene and did nothing to help Garner.

adlib7 days ago

Murph – My hero!

sabreen60

7 days ago

Especially with THAT guy, Sabreen.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Evening all – hope despite national sorrows that you are all well?

choicelady

7 days ago

Choice–so good to hear from you. Haven’t seen you around in a while.

glenn

7 days ago

AdLib, I have to say that if someone has not been breathing for 7 minutes, it’s extremely likely that he’ll not make it. Not with much brain function, anyway. But it’s hard to believe none of those cops had training in CPR. It’s a disgrace that they declined to use it.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Ms. CL – Hope you are well.

sabreen60

7 days ago

HARL!!!!

beatlex

7 days ago

Is CL in the house? And I meant to say “hi back” to Harleigh and all!

kesmarn

7 days ago

Sabreen – Yes, that should be a non-negotiable demand at this point. DAs have a built in conflict of interest when it comes to prosecuting their partners in their work, cops. That should require special state prosecutors in EVERY case against a cop.

adlib7 days ago

The gang’s all here!

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

Ad – the difference is that arresting Bundy would be done by the Feds all the other shootings are by local cops. Agree that the idiots would conflate the two, but that would maybe get those who aren’t too far gone to realize the hypocrisy. And they don’t need to shoot him (although if it was me, I’d already have dropped a drone.

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Hi Choice

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Ad and Kes–didn’t part of the tape show that Gardner was still breathing? I read somewhere that the guy who was shooting the video asked the cops why they weren’t giving Gardner CPR, and the cops replied, “because he’s still breathing.”

glenn

7 days ago

CL – Welcome! I owe you a reply to the very promising HOPE news, things have been a bit crazy this week but will catch up with you next week for sure!

adlib7 days ago

I think they were lying, glenn. It sure didn’t look like he was breathing to me.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Glenn – the man who filmed it was arrested on a gun charge…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

SLM–I know. Unbelievable, isn’t it?

glenn

7 days ago

kes – Not to mention that I heard that the EMT didn’t even follow protocall. It was that woman even used the wrong fingers when checking for his pulse. Not to mention EMT didn’t even attempt CPR.

sabreen60

7 days ago

AdLib – I am optimistic. Kathay reaffirmed support, and I’ve got it to the League, so I will keep you posted. I’m away tomorrow through next Friday evening, but I’ll know more soon I think.

choicelady

7 days ago

Sabreen and kes – I am beyond horrified at the EMT NON reponse. Every one of these deaths is sickening, but the EMT fail is terrifying.

choicelady

7 days ago

There are no checks and balances anymore at the municipal level between DA’s, cops and crime labs. At least the choking death was ruled a homocide by the coroner, to no avail with the GJ.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Sabreen, it looked like a very half-hearted effort on the part of the EMT. But the very first people on the scene should have started CPR. I almost wonder if they didn’t want to put their mouths on his… Awful thought, but that seemed consistent…

kesmarn

7 days ago

Harleigh – a man who’d been a witness to another incident said the DA asked, “Did you see a knife”. The witness said no. He was then dismissed after about 5 minutes. Nothing was asked of what he HAD seen. The fix is in.

choicelady

7 days ago

slm – Heh! Drone bomb Bundy, very funny! You’re right about there being a difference between Feds and cops but as you say, the RW would conflate them and be roused to come out and come after the protesters with counter protests that could become a flashpoint for violence. That’s my concern, that and losing this moment for change to an MSM meme about “Race Wars”. You know they’d go there.

adlib7 days ago

kes – no one does mouth to mouth anymore. The new teaching is compression, period. So if they were repulsed, it was for NOTHING.

choicelady

7 days ago

kes – I watched an interview and the tape was played again. When Garner was on ground his chest was not moving. After a struggle you’d expect someone to breathe hard. So the idiots who insist that CPR is not given when someone is breathing are full of it.

sabreen60

7 days ago

CL, in a choking situation like this, I would have done respirations — no matter what the current trend is. It was obvious that his airway was the problem — long before his heart.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Ad – if that’s what it takes to get the revolution going, so be it. They will lose again…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

glenn – Yes, the cop said that but first of all, I think he was full of crap and second, he’s a cop, the guy who strangled Garner was a cop, those cops were not the ones whose opinions on the health of someone else, especially the man they’ve strangled.

adlib7 days ago

TOTALLY agree, Sabreen. You would see his chest rise and fall. That is BS about him still allegedly breathing.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Sorry folks, I’ve got to get some rest. I thought I’d be able to say up longer tonight, but I can’t seem to put coherent thoughts together, so I’m giving up. G’night all, and let’s hope we get some systemic changes done soon so we can all breathe again.

glenn

7 days ago

Garner should have received help. I cannot understand any of this. Not ANY of it. Years ago as a teen I witnessed an older Black man having a seizure and stopped to help as I could. He was just conscious. Another, younger, Black man also stopped but no one else did. The younger man was furious that ‘no one’ helped. But seriously there was nothing WE could do. He was coming around. In Garner’s case, that is the JOB of the EMTs. They do know what to do!

choicelady

7 days ago

Glenn – sleep well

sillylittleme

7 days ago

G’night, glenn! Sleep well!

kesmarn

7 days ago

There have been just so mny of these occurances since the Zimmerman case surfaced and now we know it has been going on for years. I hope it does not ignite race riots like in the past.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Hey glenn – sorry to see you so briefly. I’m not staying long since I’m up at 4 am for a flight, but it was nice to see you. Have a GREAT weekend!

choicelady

7 days ago

CL – That is so wonderful to hear. Then you’ll be back in town next week?

adlib7 days ago

Harleigh – the protests have been amazing, but the change is going to have to come as before by law.

choicelady

7 days ago

nite glenn

Harleigh

7 days ago

AdLib – back the night of the 12th, in the office the following Tuesday. If I get email, I’ll let you know.

choicelady

7 days ago

In the Garner case, they are saying” don’t believe your lying eyes” Move along,nothing to see here” What the F+++?

beatlex

7 days ago

Nite glenn. Take care.

sabreen60

7 days ago

CL I sure hope you’re correct!

Harleigh

7 days ago

CL, I have to confess that if I had not been breathing for 7 minutes, I wouldn’t want the EMTs to “bring me back.” (Too much brain damage.) But the cops were RIGHT there and did nothing. They have training. They should have used it. The first four minutes are critical.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Harleigh – the problem is, we don’t have a good Congress, so getting those laws…

choicelady

7 days ago

Hello all

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Night glenn! Sleep well!

adlib7 days ago

kes – oh i TOTALLY agree! The police ARE trained in basics, did nothing.

choicelady

7 days ago

Hey Murph

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Hi Murph!!!

choicelady

7 days ago

Hey, Murph!

kesmarn

7 days ago

All – shouldn

sillylittleme

7 days ago

The site is not working for me tonight. Too tired to fight it.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Oh sorry to hear that, Murph. We can read YOU.

choicelady

7 days ago

We’re seeing your word, Murph!

kesmarn

7 days ago

‘t that be considered negligent homicide?

sillylittleme

7 days ago

You’d think it would, slm!

kesmarn

7 days ago

SLM – yes, you’d think negligent homicide by ALL of them would be on the table.

choicelady

7 days ago

Maybe it is working now. I moved from Firefox to Google Chrome.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

So much for the serve or protect motto…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Murph – the medium permits the message?

choicelady

7 days ago

Comin’ through loud and clear! (I’m on Chrome as well.)

kesmarn

7 days ago

beatlex – Same thing they said about Rodney King. The cops were being the crap out of him while he was on the ground but we were not suppose to be our lying eyes.

sabreen60

7 days ago

I see you Murph… keep typing towards the light! LOL

Harleigh

7 days ago

CL – Got it! Will catch up with you the following week. Thanks for keeping me updated!

adlib7 days ago

LOL!

kesmarn

7 days ago

Hey Murph!

adlib7 days ago

Murph – you may need to reload Flashplayer on Firefox, I was having the same problems last week…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Sabreen – not only were we supposed to ignore our lyin’ eyes, he was at fault for struggling not to be beaten. Uh huh.

choicelady

7 days ago

When you’re dying (or it feels like it), it’s awfully hard not to struggle.

kesmarn

7 days ago

So all – between the uptick in rape, the murder of unarmed people of color, the hating on kids fleeing their country, what is the common denominator that permits people to harm other people?

choicelady

7 days ago

A false feeling of one’s own superiority?

kesmarn

7 days ago

Choice – hate pure and simple

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Ok — I can’t type tonight. I don’t know what’s up

sabreen60

7 days ago

Kes – They left Garner not breathing on the sidewalk like an animal. They left Michael Brown lying dead for 4 hours like an animal. These cops, not all cops but these cops, are the real animals.

adlib7 days ago

Good point, AdLib. Talk about projection!

kesmarn

7 days ago

Murph – Last time the problem seemed connected to your internet connection. Can you try disconnecting then reconnecting your internet connection?

adlib7 days ago

I wonder if there is any correlation between fracking and the loss of sanity in this country…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

People always say “must be something in the water,” slm. Maybe there’s something to that…

kesmarn

7 days ago

Did anyone hear the head of the NY police union? He said the choker cop was a superior cop. Guess he doesn’t know that the cop has 3 suits against him.

sabreen60

7 days ago

SLM the baggers have all lost their fracking minds.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Ad- this is only happening here. So I will see how it goes.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

That guy was appalling, Sabreen. Said that deBlasio “threw the police under the bus.” Really??

kesmarn

7 days ago

Oh, for real Blue Bloods!

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

LOL Harleigh

sillylittleme

7 days ago

That’s right, kes. I forgot he said that.

sabreen60

7 days ago

That Cleveland cops had a horrible track record too.

kesmarn

7 days ago

cop — not “cops”

kesmarn

7 days ago

Pink – is that unoxygenated blood?

sillylittleme

7 days ago

kes – after the high speed chase and huge volley of bullets killing the unarmed, unwanted, crime free couple, COPS plural would actually be correct.

choicelady

7 days ago

Kes noted that the POS who spoke for the Police Union’s last name is ironically, “Lynch”. No kidding!

adlib7 days ago

slm – I wish I could say these murders are new, but they aren’t. What’s new is social media, cell phone cameras and 24/7 cable news. Even so, many of these cases never make news.

sabreen60

7 days ago

AdLib. How creepy is that names.’

choicelady

7 days ago

sabreen – I know of a lynching in Springfield, MO in about 2001. Covered up as a ‘suicide’. Other attacks on Black men there as well – all skinheads, but cops let it pass.

choicelady

7 days ago

CL, I almost hate to think there was another Cleveland incident… But the one I was referring to was the 12 year old boy who was just killed.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Bottom line is that the DOJ and FBI have to actively get involved in thes cases and raise them out of the local level.

Harleigh

7 days ago

What should concern us all is that the police are acting as judge and jury in a split second decision.

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Wouldn’t you agree that that douche Police Union guy Lynch looks and talks like a fellow racist thug? I can’t imagine anyone buying the crap he pedals except fellow racists already on their side.

adlib7 days ago

kes – I know. That poor child! But it’s NOT the sole incident. I love Cleveland. I’m rethinking it a lot now.

choicelady

7 days ago

AdLib, I saw that — about the last name “Lynch.” Is his middle name Kuklux?

kesmarn

7 days ago

Harleigh – I work with our district US Attorney who is vigorous in his prosecution of hate crimes esp. under color of authority. But you don’t always have a circumstance in which the feds can intervene. “Selective enforcement of the law” is a good entree, though.

choicelady

7 days ago

LOL AL

Harleigh

7 days ago

I hear you, CL. It’s a great city in so many ways, but obviously some real problems too. So sad.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Kes – Yep, you pointed it out first. And I believe his full name is “I. Will Lynch”.

adlib7 days ago

AdLib – LOL!!

choicelady

7 days ago

Good one, Ad Lib!

kesmarn

7 days ago

Way past my paygrade CL but not past my outrage. these incidents are just too messed up.

Harleigh

7 days ago

There was another incident where a black guy and his girlfriend were walking down the stairwell in their apartment building. I “rookie” was doing a “vertical” check (something they are not suppose to do) and had his gun out. He shot and killed the guy and said it was an accident. This was an innocent man who hadn’t committed any crime and had no contraband on him.

sabreen60

7 days ago

Harleigh – way too messed up.

choicelady

7 days ago

Sabreen, it seems like we’re getting these reports almost every day now.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Sabreen – I read about the stairwell incident. Police have millions in hardware. Where is the TRAINING? They were explicitly told NOT to do that, but were not sufficiently well trained to make it stick.

choicelady

7 days ago

Sabreen – Yes, and that cop called or texted his union at the scene, clearly most concerned about himself, not the innocent people he had shot.

adlib7 days ago

AdLib – I read that story about his texting his union. Jaw dropped.

choicelady

7 days ago

They were ‘offline’ for awhile after they killed the guy in the stairwell.

All – I went up against our PD as they were boasting about their programs for the homeless. I would not let them off the hook for the gratuitous violence they commit daily against the homeless. I have made it known I’m watching. I now think I have to be careful, too, even though I was very low key and thanked them for what they’re doing well. I’m not stupid enough to think now I get the ‘white pass’ so much anymore.

choicelady

7 days ago

Please be careful, CL!

kesmarn

7 days ago

kes – back to making it known I’m friends with the US Attorney!!! I know how to CYA!!!

choicelady

7 days ago

CL they are vindictive. Be careful.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Choice – tread lightly, they no longer need an excuse…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

I have friends in high AND low places, but yes. I am careful.

choicelady

7 days ago

This kind of racist police killings and assaults have been going on for a long time but many people not amongst the black communities that have been living with this hrrible reality should have been clued into the out of control and brutal nature of many police forces when the Occupy Wall Street protests were crushed by them.

adlib7 days ago

One person in Ferguson who’d given info to Anonymous about KKK connections to the police, later begged Anonymous not to publish it because there had been threats to kill him and his family. They don’t play.

kesmarn

7 days ago

College kids were not exempt from their excesses either AL

Harleigh

7 days ago

I experienced the ugly decades ago in Philly. Jumped by white supremacists while walking with a Black male friend, the police treated us as the evil doers. I’ve seen it from that point of view. I never thought it had gone away.

choicelady

7 days ago

I am starting from scratch

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Ad – well you know they were disparaged too

sillylittleme

7 days ago

CL – You reminded me of the hashtag on Twitter “CrimingWhileWhite”. If you and others haven’t followed it I think you should. People who say they are white tell about all the things they have done and should have received actions from the police, but were let go with a warning or a slap on the wrist.

sabreen60

7 days ago

So far, so good, Murph.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Murph – Vox or your whole life? If the latter, let us know how it’s working for you.

choicelady

7 days ago

CL – Very sorry to hear that but it helps to explain how brave you are to stand up to them as you have!

adlib7 days ago

Let me see if this prints this time. I have been working with community organizers in Ferguson and there are echoes of the Occupy Movement.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Sabreen – I am following CrimingWhile White. Only problem – because of my stands I have NOT gotten off while standing for women’s right to choose, for racial justice, etc.! But I don’t get tickets from traffic cops for expired stickers, and a Black person would have. That IS for sure!

choicelady

7 days ago

AdLib, June 1965 was the worst day of my life. But I learned a most valuable lesson about racism. It was directed AT me, and I never forgot the sheer terror!

choicelady

7 days ago

slm – Yes, the OWS protesters were originally slimed by everyone in the MSM…until the protests took off then they were afraid to not support them. The MSM are not on the side of the people, that can never be doubted. They only function to profit the corporations that own them…and serve them by fighting against changes of the status quo.

adlib7 days ago

AdLib – MSNBC night shows have all been really good on the protests and the reasons for them. Daytime – not so much…

choicelady

7 days ago

Murph – Where are things right now with them?

adlib7 days ago

“a pattern of immaturity, lack of judgment and inability to follow instructions…had an emotional meltdown…performance at the shooting range was ‘dismal'”… the evening news just covered the story on that 26 year old Cleveland cop.

kesmarn

7 days ago

In Ferguson- the cause is just but there is a power struggle among the local leaders and with regional and national leaders; goals are unclear; plans unfocused; there is such an unwillingness to do what is not dramatic but necessary (voter registration, and voting);

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

kes – wow. That’s pretty damning.

choicelady

7 days ago

CL – Did you see the tapes of the protestors (lead by the NAACP) who marched over 100 miles to Jefferson City, MO? They had to march through Rosebud (?) a small town with a poputlation that is 97% white. The residents call them the “n” word and called the whites who were marching “n” lovers. Someone left a watermelon and a box of fried chicken in the street – pretty pathetic huh? They can’t come up with anything new?

sabreen60

7 days ago

Murph – one of the ministers there Seoku I think it’s spelled, is an ally. I hope he’s doing the right thing there.

choicelady

7 days ago

Sabreen – I’m fine with watermelon and fried chicken. It’s bombs I fear! I prefer pitiful to dangerous, though I heard someone shot at the group, too.

choicelady

7 days ago

CL – Yes, the Garner decision by the morons (or worse) on that GJ was so awful that even Glenn Beck is attacking it! Right and Left coming together over this? That means something can really get done if we strike now.

adlib7 days ago

That was the cop’s previous performance evaluation. And Sabreen, how pathetic… that is the word for it. Ignorant.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Whenever anyone is talking about ‘the South’ shal rise again, they are talking about pondscum!

Harleigh

7 days ago

Cl… Seoku? Not sure. Frankly….we are not all that welcome…..we get asked to help, show up and then get ignored and bad mouthed after we leave. The team I am on has pretty much decided to walk away.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

AdLib – All the RW who are critiquing the Garner decision are doing it so you can’t criticize them on all the others. Don’t be fooled.

choicelady

7 days ago

kes – I read the report on the Cleveland cop. Cleveland officials admitted that they did not do a background check on him. This is the 3rd time the feds have had to come in and take over the Cleveland police department.

sabreen60

7 days ago

Murph – that’s OK. All you can do is what they want. I’m sorry about the bad mouthing – that’s low – but I can appreciate their passionate desire to control all the outcomes.

choicelady

7 days ago

Murph – ALl the local leaders are competing with the showboating Rev. Al and on and on, they’re all jostling to stand at the front of the movement. That is awful.

adlib7 days ago

That’s interesting, CL! Sort of a “token objection”?

kesmarn

7 days ago

harleigh – they’ve had a lot of time to rise again, but haven’t. maybe some viagra is in order…

But AdLib – legislation will NOT come out of it. They will dither it away esp. after January. This is for show, NOT for substance, and they will continue to pretend they’re trying, but they won’t do anything.

choicelady

7 days ago

Harleigh – the combo of Viagra and guns? Lordamighty!

choicelady

7 days ago

All how about the vote this week to deny Social Security to former Nazis…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Boneher and the boys will never do anything for this country. The Senate is about to turn against us also too.

Harleigh

7 days ago

SLM – seriously? It’s about 60 years overdue! The “Family”, the Dominionists of the 50s, brought unreconstructed Nazis here where they’ve been ever since. Damn well about time.

choicelady

7 days ago

CL – Don’t disagree that national Congressional Repubs will do nothing but the pressure can push the state to act. Especially in NY.

adlib7 days ago

AdLib – OK – I will definitely agree about the states. At least the Blue ones.

choicelady

7 days ago

Like Occupy, they are playing right into the hands of the power brokers….In the last few years we have all heard the refrain THIS event or set of events will e THE ONE to bring about the change….NewTown, Occupy, and a host of others…

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Choice – too little too late in my opinion.

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Murph – I have worked with grassroots efforts. It ain’t easy. Your skin has to be really tough. IMO, you just have to stay true to yourself.

sabreen60

7 days ago

Do you think they’re actually going to succeed in prevention the Prez from delivering the State of the Union address to Congress?

kesmarn

7 days ago

Murph – Sigh. I agree. Marx may have had a point: history repeats itself. First time for tragedy, second time for farce.

choicelady

7 days ago

kes – they cannot prevent a SOU address. All they CAN do – and jolly well might – is make him give it someplace other than the Capitol. THAT would be so bad for them…I hope they try.

choicelady

7 days ago

Sab…I too have worked with grass roots groups many times, and rarely do they bear a crop.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

My fellow

Harleigh

7 days ago

Choice – farces are supposed to be funny, nothing funny about this time in history…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Murph – I do think change will happen in some places. Cleveland has no choice now. NY will change now. It’s a hard slog in MO but if the nation keeps moving in that direction, state by state, there can be change nationally.

adlib7 days ago

The GOP seem to be a special case. I think they are trying to put history on an infinite loop, same thing over and over again.

jjgravitas

7 days ago

Murph – LOL!! I think it’s easier to mobilize people on specifics of legislation than on social change. Everyone these days has a pet project. AdLib – remember Palm Springs where everyone had a different agenda?

choicelady

7 days ago

Hey, JJ!

kesmarn

7 days ago

Hey!

jjgravitas

7 days ago

jj – spot on!! making time stand still (as if it could)

sillylittleme

7 days ago

My fellow americans, I am in the Situation room for the SOTU because….

Harleigh

7 days ago

SLM – Marx didn’t think so either, but he was noting that the movements can turn into something so disjointed that’s what they resemble.

choicelady

7 days ago

Kes – I did see a sign Ted Cruz wants to post on the Capitol Building before the SOTU, “Whites Only”.

adlib7 days ago

Hi jj! Good to see you.

choicelady

7 days ago

LOL! There you have it, Harleigh.

kesmarn

7 days ago

Choice – that explains all the crazy talk…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Same to ya Lady

jjgravitas

7 days ago

Ted REALLY ought to think this through since a lot of people don’t think HE is white.

choicelady

7 days ago

Harleigh – now that would be something

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Hey jj!

adlib7 days ago

Good one, AdLib! Ya think Joe Barton is going to pull his “You lie!” routine again this time?

kesmarn

7 days ago

Hey Adlib

jjgravitas

7 days ago

Cleveland has had DOJ intervention twice before….and I see the state governments turning redder and redder…I think the power brokers are firmly in control.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Kes – I hear Joe Barton may wear his pointy white hood though at the SOTU.

adlib7 days ago

Murph – I am hoping these incidents (another yesterday in Phoenix) will begin to mobilize people in fear for their lives!

choicelady

7 days ago

Barton could take the pointy hood off at the appropriate moment and use it as a megaphone. “YOU LIE!”

kesmarn

7 days ago

Murph – Maybe seeds were planted. And maybe it takes a long, long, long time for those seeds to sprout. Maybe they are perennials. Hell, I never thought we would have to fight the same battles that we fought in the 60’s.

sabreen60

7 days ago

kes! That’d be multitasking! Think Joe’s up to it?

choicelady

7 days ago

See a pointy white hood and rip it off. I hate self righteous creeps in masks whether they be muslims or RWNJs.

jjgravitas

7 days ago

Murph – There is cause to doubt if things will change in Cleveland but I think that them being repeat offenders will keep the Feds on top of them much stronger and longer than the first time. There is no teacher like failure.

adlib7 days ago

Murph – we’re where the Civil Rights Movement was in the late 50s. We got complacent, ignored the growing RW power, but we ARE reacting, and that’s seriously different from before.

choicelady

7 days ago

Hey jj!

sabreen60

7 days ago

Ad – you assume they are capable of learning, 3X proves they don’t

sillylittleme

7 days ago

CL most dumbasses have no idea they are at risk! If Mein Kampf were rewritten in the Engrish they would call it ‘grassroots’. They can’t see what’s coming and soitanly not on Faux.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Sabreen – we are refighting Roe v Wade, too. We can’t sleep through the growing power of the right, esp. the religious right as we did in the 90s.

choicelady

7 days ago

Its the 60’s all over again in the 21st century. Left Wing Liberals never should have faded into the wood work.

jjgravitas

7 days ago

Hey Sabreen

jjgravitas

7 days ago

Harleigh – FOX ratings are down, and I think most people seriously DO want a better world. But it’s MSM that no longer tells the truth. We need boycotts NOT of Rush and Glenn but of the 6 o clock news!

choicelady

7 days ago

TRUE JJ, we thought things had changed and we relaxed.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Choice – we need the Fairness Doctrine in place again!!!

sillylittleme

7 days ago

jj – they became concerned with their own power, made silos to live in, and broke ranks with too many other people. They got coopted too, just in more stylish ways. Those who fight for justice kept on. There never were that many of us.

choicelady

7 days ago

CL, are you familiar with a group that refers to itself as “Identity Christians”? They’re anti-semitic and extremely racist. Just picked up a book about them, but it was written about 15 years ago. I wondered if they’re still around.

kesmarn

7 days ago

SLM not likely for the next 2 years anyway.

Harleigh

7 days ago

SLM – we can kiss fairness goodbye until at LEAST 2017.

choicelady

7 days ago

Sorry, folks, a bit too busy today, so gotta go. take care and be safe.

pinkpantheroz

7 days ago

kes – it’s “Christian Identity” and I know them well. They trespass in my backyard.

choicelady

7 days ago

Bye Pink

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Lady, before cable, the news had a real real responsibility to report the truth. Cable turned that around in the 80’s and since then.

jjgravitas

7 days ago

Take care, PPO! So good to see you here!

kesmarn

7 days ago

Good night/g’day PPO – see you soon I hope!

choicelady

7 days ago

CL – I agree 100%. But since we have a corporate owned media, I’m not very hopeful.

sabreen60

7 days ago

bye PPO

Harleigh

7 days ago

jj – yes and it was supposed to be commercial free, paid for by subscription

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Sabreen – I’m hoping we can move rich liberals to fund alternative news again. Air America was great, but it was poorly run. We need MORE.

choicelady

7 days ago

Good night, PPO!

sabreen60

7 days ago

Well folks – I have to be up at (gulp) 4 am to get a plane, so I’m also bidding you all good night! See you in a couple of week!

choicelady

7 days ago

Is this irony squared or what, the likely new AG also has the last name of Lynch…Loretta Lynch. And she is all about prosecuting over violations of civil rights. So I think that should give people some serious belief that the Feds aren’t going to let things continue how they’ve been.

adlib7 days ago

CL- I loved airamer when it started. Randi Rhoades was the best!

Harleigh

7 days ago

Have a good couple of weeks Choice

sillylittleme

7 days ago

CL – I don’t understand why wealthy liberals don’t see the need to have control of some media outlets.

sabreen60

7 days ago

CL – Please stay safe and have a good trip.

sabreen60

7 days ago

Ad – if she’s confirmed and she stays true to herself…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Choice- were are you heading.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Seeya PPO! Have a great weekend!

adlib7 days ago

Ad…I predict that Lynch will not get confirmed….I think Holder may have to last for two more years.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Night CL! Great travels to you!

adlib7 days ago

Murph – Dems only need a majority of 51 to confirm Lynch in this Congress. What do you think they won’t?

adlib7 days ago

Murph – Do you think you’ll keep working with the protestors?

sabreen60

7 days ago

Senate confirmation will not happen if she says she will prosecute white bigots. LOL

Harleigh

7 days ago

There is no time for the hearings and if they push it through McConnell will be sure that no one gets confirmed come January because of the uproar in the base.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Adlib – Dems better work fast as their magority vanishes once the new guys enter in January.

jjgravitas

7 days ago

CL, sorry I missed you exit there! Thanks for the answer on the Identity folks. I didn’t realize they were your stalkers! Have a great weekend and stay safe!

kesmarn

7 days ago

Is it wrong that I keep hoping for McConnell to kick off before Jan?

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Sab- the team I world with has been burned three times now (August, November, and Now) – I think we have had it.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Murph – What’s the specifics on hearings, how much time is needed?

adlib7 days ago

Murph – sad to hear, working with others to effect change isn’t easy

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Murph – Well I’m sure people of good will appreciated all that you have done.

sabreen60

7 days ago

The Senate timetable for confirmation will require more days than are left in the calendar.

murphthesurf3

7 days ago

Kids, I may have to say goodnight. Almost midnight here and the community chorus is singing tomorrow. Have a wonderful weekend, all!

kesmarn

7 days ago

I’m going to say Good night folks. Stay safe!

sabreen60

7 days ago

kes – you too!! tra la la la

sillylittleme

7 days ago

‘Night, Kesmarn

jjgravitas

7 days ago

Good nite kes!

sabreen60

7 days ago

Hey but we will get the all new BENGHAZI Show starring Howdy Gowdy! NINTH time is the charm right?

Harleigh – The Repub control of Congress will be just one long campaign for 2016.

adlib7 days ago

SLM – Trey Gowdy… a real tbag tool.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Ad – the longest 2 years of our lives!!!

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – where does he hail from?

sillylittleme

7 days ago

The worst Chairmanship this Congress has to be Inhoffe in the Senate heading up the Environment Committee. Is that worse than when Michele Bachman was on the Intelligence Committee?

adlib7 days ago

R-SC and an avowed bigot bagger.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Or was it the Unintelligence Committee?

adlib7 days ago

SLM he is an R – SC

Harleigh

7 days ago

Ad – she didn’t head it up. I’d hate to be an environmental scientist with him as head denier.

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – disgusting

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh, the way I see it, Issa’s witch hunts hurt Repubs and insulated Obama. Gowdy’s more extremist ones will likely do so even more.

adlib7 days ago

slm – True, Bachmann was just a member but matching her with the word “intelligence” was confounding.

adlib7 days ago

Only faux will keep up the Benghazi BS. I sure am glad 90% of us didn’t die of EBOLA!!! More unarmed black men have died by out of control police than that phony plague.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Ad – I still don’t get how she passed the bar…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

SLM they laid the bar on the ground?

Harleigh

7 days ago

slm – This is a waste of 2 years but the Repubs will lose The Senate in 2016. They have many more seats up, enough in purple and blue states to lose control and after people get a look at a modern Repub controlled Congress, they’re going to be tossed out big time.

adlib7 days ago

Ad – only if people get out and vote

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – har har

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – That’s a sad fact. Most Americans were panicked by Ebola armed innocent Americans have been killed by cops than by Ebola.

adlib7 days ago

SLM I am going to miss that little bird that occasionly pops out of Bachmann’s forehaid and announces the wrong time!

Harleigh

7 days ago

Whoops, my post had a section deleted! Meant to say that more unarmed, innocent Americans have been killed by cops than by Ebola.

adlib7 days ago

Harleigh –

adlib7 days ago

Good news is we now get Joni Ernst R-IA as a replacement whackdoodle in the senate.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Harleigh – did you see her rally this week? 40 protesters

sillylittleme

7 days ago

I hear Bachmann has already lined up her own business of staging staring contests around the nation.

adlib7 days ago

Harleigh – she will be a laugh a minute and then she can always slaughter a pig

sillylittleme

7 days ago

slm – Ernst had 40 protesters? On what issue (so many to choose from!)?

adlib7 days ago

Ad – she’d win everytime, crazy eyes can

sillylittleme

7 days ago

I saw that, more press than protesters. LOL

Harleigh

7 days ago

Ad – no Bachmann

sillylittleme

7 days ago

and I meant to say crazy eyes can’t be stared into…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

slm – Oh! Bachmann is already being forgotten. Loved her whine about no press asking her if she would run for President in 2016!

adlib7 days ago

Palin – Bachmann 2016 for jebus! Glory! Y’all com git yer screech on!

Harleigh

7 days ago

slm – I’d crack up if I had to stare into those loony eyes for any amount of time.

adlib7 days ago

Harleigh – If only! And they can argue over who was the bigger has-been.

adlib7 days ago

I think she actually believes what she says! Her and her nutbag Marcus.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Harleigh – I hope for your sake they run, that would be hysterical

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – Bachmann believes in people being possessed by Satan, she’ll believe anything.

adlib7 days ago

Ad – more projection from her…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

I started posting for that ticket in Jan 09 on the old HP!!! LMAO Oh I’m such a rebel. At least I can come here for some clues.

Bachmann has been nothing but a gubmint grifter her whole adult life. I think she married Marcus so she would not hve to have sex!

Harleigh

7 days ago

If Marcus is gay…then what is Michele? Methinks she’s campaigned a bit too hard against gays and lesbians.

adlib7 days ago

Harleigh – well that explains a lot.

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Ad – it is always those who deny their reality who are most vehement

sillylittleme

7 days ago

There have been many RWs who have been vehemently against gays then outed. Some who are outed but don’t know they are, right Lindsay Graham?

adlib7 days ago

I got a Larry Craig ‘I’m NOT gay!’ card. LOL

Harleigh

7 days ago

And the 2016 GOP Presidential Primary will be so right wing, with a Repub controlled Congress pulling it farther and farther to the right, that will be amazing to witness.

adlib7 days ago

Ad – by amazing do you mean gagworthy?

sillylittleme

7 days ago

And the megachurch preachers being outed after railing against gays. Wow.

adlib7 days ago

It will be a fucking HOOT! I can’t wait for the repub cornvention!

Harleigh

7 days ago

A hoot and a holler? I’ll be the one hollering

sillylittleme

7 days ago

slm – Yes, Rick Perry and Ted Cruz will be the co-hosts, leading the candidates right off a cliff like the idjits they are.

adlib7 days ago

Carson is leAding off! BWAHAHAHAHA

Harleigh

7 days ago

Harleigh – saw his speech this week what a sad excuse for a human being and he was a pediatric brain surgeon. yuck!!

sillylittleme

7 days ago

They are going to need a stretch clown car for 2016.

Harleigh

7 days ago

several…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Heh! Carson will be arm and arm with them, it’s going to be like a perverse Wizard of Oz, “We’re off to see the Wizard, the psycho Grand Wizard of Ours!

adlib7 days ago

the results of Carson’s work are truly sad if it is anything like him.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Carson is so extreme, his addition to the mix will only help Dems.

adlib7 days ago

Ad – nice play on words, he’d have a high time with those grand wizards…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

slm – If you’ve heard Carson talk about race, he would be cozy as could be marching right along side Klansmen.

adlib7 days ago

ad – maybe, but would they?

sillylittleme

7 days ago

slm – Very good point!!!

adlib7 days ago

SO what other crazies am I leaving out? Will Huckabee run? Santorum?

adlib7 days ago

I’m sure Allen West will be on the trail. seriously…. and that’s almost as nutty as it gets folks. When Allen heard a minority had moved into his new gated community he organized a protest! When he found out it was him he lit a cross in his own front yard!

Harleigh

7 days ago

Oh Santorum will run, he needs to keep his treasure chest going, Fuckabee may but doesn’t he have a cushy Fox job?

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – very funny!!!

sillylittleme

7 days ago

muhahaha

Harleigh

7 days ago

I saw elsewhere some RW nutjob comment that if Carson fot the nom, he’d get at least 25% of the black vote, maybe 50% because as all racists know, black people don’t vote on where someone stands on the issues, they just vote blindly for black people.

adlib7 days ago

West was given a less than honorable discharge, doubt he’d be welcome as commander-in-chief

sillylittleme

7 days ago

ad – I saw that too, the comments from blacks turned that into a lie real quick…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

oh yeah AL, and some women do that also too!

Harleigh

7 days ago

Harleigh – Really? When you lose elections, you usually are over. West has no constituency, he’s applauded by the RWNJs but they would never want a black man leading them.

adlib7 days ago

Ad – they did have a black man as their point person…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – Yep, look at how Sarah Palin won the VP!

adlib7 days ago

slm – That was just a token gesture to try and balance out Obama winning, they dumped Steele right away after his first term, in 2010, even though they won so big that year. He was just a prop and after they won, they didn’t figure they needed him anymore.

adlib7 days ago

SLM Michael Steele was a token that still can’t admit he is/was just token. Of all the funny groups the Log Cabin Repubeliebaggers are the most cornfused people I can think of.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Ad – true, he doesn’t see it that way though

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – they don’t exist anymore…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

I bet Reince Prebus is Rick Santorums bitch.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Rinse Pubis is the Koch Bros bitch

sillylittleme

7 days ago

OH NOS! SLM when did that happen?

Harleigh

7 days ago

Harleigh – I looked them up back in ’12, just a one page website. Guess they gave up…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – So true! Every time I saw a Log Cabin Repub interviewed, they could never answer the question of why they would belong to a group that despised them, saw them as perverts and voted in platforms against their having equal rights. “We’re trying to work within the party to change it.” Huh? So black people should join the Klan to change it from within?

adlib7 days ago

I saw one on Rachel Maddow once or twice and she asked him point blank why he supported a totally anti-gey party that would not let them into the conventions. What a stuttering fool.

Harleigh

7 days ago

Harleigh – I stand corrected, they are back with a vengeance…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

SLM do they now have a 2 page website? LOL

Harleigh

7 days ago

Yep, can only guess that they were just so brainwashed through childhood they just couldn’t see themselves as being anything other than Repubs like their parents. Lemmings.

adlib7 days ago

Harleigh – no its actually quite extensive…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

“We’re here, we’re queer…let us into the GOP Convention please!”

adlib7 days ago

Sort of like black-nazi-skinhead-jews for jebus. those dirty commies! LMAO

Harleigh

7 days ago

I like how they want limited government but a strong national defense. My guess, not an accountant among them…

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh –

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Harleigh – Bingo!

adlib7 days ago

Night guys, have a great weekend and a great week

sillylittleme

7 days ago

Maybe there should be a study into whether wanting to be a Republican is connected to psychological problems?

adlib7 days ago

Or have the last 50 years been that study?

adlib7 days ago

I always thought leaders in either party had to have mericas best interests at heart and follow the best and brightest. Baggers are really just plain stupid and their leaders realy REALLY SUCK!